Fraxel

Fraxel is a non-invasive laser therapy providing a wide array of treatment options to address many forms of aging, customized to each patient's needs and concerns, many requiring minimal recovery time. It's the perfect solution for people who want their skin to look younger, but don’t want to look plastic or fake and can’t afford a lot of time away from work or their social life.

Overview

Fraxel is a brand name for fractional resurfacing, a type of laser treatment that is used to improve the texture and tone of the skin. It works by creating tiny microthermal zones (think pixels) deep into the skin that the body then heals by pushing out the old, damaged skin and replacing it with fresh, new skin.

Procedure

During a Fraxel treatment, the laser is passed over the skin multiple times. Each pass removes a fraction of the skin's surface until the desired result is achieved. The procedure is typically performed in a doctor's office and takes about 20 to 30 minutes. A topical anesthetic is usually applied before the procedure to minimize discomfort.

Benefits

Fraxel treatments can improve the appearance of:

• Sun damage
• Wrinkles
• Acne scars
• Age spots
• Melasma
• Skin resurfacing

Risks and Side Effects

As with any medical procedure, there are risks and potential side effects associated with Fraxel treatments. These may include:

• Redness and swelling
• Changes in skin color
• Infection
• Scarring
• Reactivation of cold sores

Patients should discuss these risks with their doctor before deciding on a Fraxel treatment.

Aftercare

After a Fraxel treatment, patients should avoid sun exposure and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day. The skin may also be red and swollen for a few days after the procedure. A moisturizer can be used to soothe the skin and reduce these symptoms.

See Also

• Laser resurfacing
• Dermatology
• Skin care

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